The warning signs of a developing addiction may not always be obvious. Whether you are concerned about yourself or a loved one, it’s important to understand that addiction is a disease, and, like any disease, it has certain accompanying symptoms. These signs are all indicators that addiction has either developed or progressed.
Why It’s Important to Recognize These Warning Signs
Being able to recognize addiction’s warning signs will allow you to take steps toward recovery. This can mean having a conversation about substance misuse or calling a drug and alcohol rehab center for advice. The sooner a person can get help, the higher the likelihood of a successful recovery. The warning signs of addiction can be emotional, mental, physical, and behavioral.
Emotional Signs of Addiction
Moodiness, irritability, and depression are common signs of addiction. If there seems to always be a defensive or ambivalent response when a person’s whereabouts or activities is questioned, and this isn’t typical of their behavior, it is a common warning sign that help from addiction recovery centers may be needed.
Someone who seems to suddenly become irritable for no apparent reason may be experiencing addiction. Another emotional sign is becoming depressed and withdrawn; they may choose to spend increasing amounts of time away from the people and activities they used to enjoy.
Mental Signs of Addiction
A person may be struggling with addiction if their self-esteem or self-confidence appears to drop unexpectedly and for long periods of time. They may be unable to focus or concentrate, and they may have problems with recalling events or be experiencing general memory loss where they had no issue with memory before.
If they’ve become depressed to the point where they are expressing suicidal thoughts, this can be a warning sign of drug addiction as well.
Physical Signs of Addiction
A person may neglect their cleanliness and appearance. They may also unexpectedly lose or gain weight, resulting in ill-fitting clothing. They may be having problems sleeping, which can include insomnia, changes in sleep patterns, and an abnormal increase in sleep.
Their eyes may uncharacteristically look red or bloodshot, and their pupils may appear smaller or larger than what is typical. They may often drop things they carry or bump into furniture. Sores may have appeared on their body or face, or they may seem to be experiencing the symptoms of a bad cold.
Behavioral Warning Signs of Addiction
There are several behaviors that are indicative of a developing or worsening addiction. They may have financial problems or may have become secretive about their activities. Missing important events, failing to show up at work, or continuing to misuse a substance even though it’s resulted in negative consequences are all addiction signs.
Getting Help
If you or someone you love is experiencing any of the above warning signs of addiction, it’s important to get help as soon as possible. BriteLife Recovery is a leading drug and alcohol rehab dedicated to holistic addiction treatment. Call 888-224-7424 to learn more.